From the Wrestling Ring to City Hall: Veteran Dave Thomas Shares His Remarkable Life Story, Defends Ramirez, and Backs Two Hanford Council Candidates

A 31-year military veteran, former professional wrestler, businessman, and longtime public servant speaks candidly about racism, political rumors, government accountability, and why he supports Cheyne Strawn and Francisco Ramirez for Hanford City Council.

HANFORD, CA | Kings Network News

Former Hanford City Councilman Dave Thomas has lived a life that could easily fill the pages of a book.

From serving his country for 31 years in the military to stepping inside the professional wrestling ring, building a successful dairy operation, and representing the residents of Hanford’s District E, Thomas has experienced more than most people might imagine.

In an exclusive interview with Kings Network News host and Hanford City Council District D candidate Francisco Ramirez, Thomas opened up about his remarkable journey, his experiences in public office, his personal struggles, and his concerns about the future of Hanford.

Thomas also expressed his support for Cheyne Strawn, a candidate for District E, and Francisco Ramirez, a candidate for District D, offering Ramirez his explicit endorsement.

But beyond politics, the conversation revealed something far more personal: the life of a man who has spent decades serving his country, building businesses, entertaining audiences, and standing up for what he believes is right.

A Military Career Spanning 31 Years

Long before entering local politics, Thomas dedicated 31 years of his life to military service.

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During the interview, Thomas shared that he rose through the enlisted ranks to E-9, Command Sergeant Major, one of the highest enlisted ranks in the United States Army.

Thomas recalled serving during two wars, including the Gulf War, and discussed his continued involvement in training soldiers through the California State Guard at Camp Roberts and Camp San Luis Obispo.

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Even after decades of military experience, Thomas continues to speak about service with enthusiasm.

When asked what advice he would give young people considering joining the military, Thomas encouraged them to pursue a field that interests them and offers opportunities after leaving military service.

He emphasized that the military provides valuable career training, educational opportunities, discipline, independence, and personal growth.

Thomas also shared that he was drafted into the military, a very different experience from today’s volunteer-based armed forces.

Having grown up working on a dairy, he jokingly recalled that waking up at five in the morning during military training was easier than the early mornings he experienced growing up.

For Thomas, military service was more than a career. It became part of the foundation that shaped his work ethic, discipline, and approach to leadership.

Cowboy Dave: From the Wrestling Ring to Hollywood Stunts

One of the most entertaining moments of the interview came when Thomas revealed another chapter of his life: professional wrestling.

Known inside the ring as “Cowboy Dave,” Thomas described how his wrestling career began after he established an amateur boxing club.

Despite having little wrestling experience at the time, Thomas said he contacted promoters across the country and offered to wrestle anyone, anywhere, even for free.

His determination eventually led him to a promoter in Culver City, California, where he stepped into the ring and began developing his wrestling persona.

Thomas recalled how his wife helped create his wrestling outfit, complete with cowboy-inspired designs.

He described entering the ring without fully understanding the choreography and communication involved in professional wrestling.

His lack of experience made for an unforgettable debut, but his personality and ability to entertain audiences caught the attention of promoters.

Thomas eventually received training from experienced wrestling professionals, including Pepper Gomez.

He also recalled experiences involving some of wrestling’s biggest names, including Andre the Giant and Terry Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan.

As a wrestling villain, commonly called a “heel,” Cowboy Dave enjoyed entertaining audiences, provoking reactions, and becoming the character fans loved to dislike.

But wrestling was only part of his entertainment career.

Thomas also described working as a stunt performer, participating in staged fights and performing falls for entertainment productions.

He later explored comedy, something he continues to enjoy.

During the interview, Thomas shared several humorous stories and expressed interest in returning to comedy performances in the future.

For those who knew Thomas only as a councilman, his experiences in wrestling, stunt work, and comedy revealed an entirely different side of his personality.

From 50 Cows to 8,000: A Businessman’s Journey

Thomas’s story also includes an impressive journey through agriculture and entrepreneurship.

Raised in a dairy family, Thomas shared that his father immigrated from Portugal and eventually worked for the City of Hanford for approximately 30 years.

After operating a security business, Thomas saved his money and eventually established his own dairy operation.

According to Thomas, he started with approximately 50 cows and expanded his business to roughly 8,000.

He recalled working 18 to 19 hours a day, managing responsibilities and making the sacrifices necessary to grow his operation.

His experiences as a business owner would later influence his approach to government spending, economic development, and accountability.

Thomas also spoke candidly about the personal challenges he experienced throughout his life.

He shared that his first wife passed away after battling dementia, a heartbreaking experience that eventually contributed to his decision to sell his cattle while retaining his property.

Thomas later remarried and spoke warmly about his current wife, sharing moments of humor and appreciation for the companionship he has found.

His personal experiences offered another reminder that behind every public figure is a person who has experienced success, hardship, loss, and new beginnings.

Serving Hanford: A Councilman Who Wasn’t Afraid to Speak His Mind

During his years representing Hanford’s District E, Thomas developed a reputation for speaking openly, challenging fellow elected officials, and questioning decisions he believed were not in the community’s best interest.

Throughout the interview, he recalled advocating for important projects involving Hanford’s hospital, educational facilities, and public safety.

Thomas credited his willingness to consult professionals and residents with helping move projects forward.

When discussing hospital development, he explained that he preferred asking medical professionals what the community needed rather than allowing political disagreements to determine decisions.

He also recalled advocating for better police officer compensation during a period when Hanford was struggling to retain experienced personnel.

Thomas said he believed the city was becoming a training ground for officers who would eventually leave for better-paying departments.

He wanted Hanford to become competitive enough to retain the people it invested in training.

For Thomas, the principle was straightforward: listen to the people, understand the facts, and make decisions based on what benefits the community.

He also expressed concerns about government spending, legal expenses, and decisions being made without sufficient public input.

Although Thomas did not hesitate to criticize elected officials, his message repeatedly returned to one central idea.

Public office should be about serving the residents, not personal recognition or political power.

Standing Against Racial Discrimination: How Dave Thomas Helped Kathy Willis Secure a City Council Seat

One of the most powerful moments of the interview came when Thomas recalled an incident during his time on the Hanford City Council involving the appointment of Kathy Willis to a vacant council seat.

According to Thomas, Willis was a longtime resident of the district with strong community ties, including her work in the school system.

Despite her qualifications and connection to the community, Thomas recalled that certain individuals were pushing to appoint another candidate.

Thomas believed racial prejudice may have played a role in the effort to overlook Willis.

Rather than remaining silent, he challenged his fellow council members and questioned why someone who had spent much of her life in the community was being passed over.

Thomas made it clear that political friendships, personal preferences, and the color of someone’s skin should never determine who receives an opportunity to serve.

He recalled making a motion to appoint Willis and publicly challenging those who opposed her selection to explain their reasoning.

According to his account, his willingness to confront the situation led a fellow council member to change his vote, ultimately allowing Kathy Willis to secure the appointment.

During the interview, Ramirez praised Thomas for his willingness to stand up for what he believed was right, regardless of race or political pressure.

For Ramirez, who has known Thomas for more than two decades, the story reinforced something he had admired about the former councilman: his willingness to judge people by their qualifications, character, and commitment to the community rather than the color of their skin.

The story highlighted a principle Thomas emphasized throughout the conversation:

Leadership is not about protecting political friendships or following the crowd. It is about having the courage to do what is right, even when standing alone.

For Thomas, helping Kathy Willis was not about political recognition. It was about fairness, equal opportunity, and ensuring that the people of Hanford had a representative with strong roots in their community.

Serving on the Kings County Grand Jury: Recognizing Those Who Work Behind the Scenes

Beyond his military service, business accomplishments, and years on the Hanford City Council, Thomas also spoke proudly about his time serving on the Kings County Grand Jury.

Thomas completed two full terms and was elected to a third before stepping away because of his business responsibilities.

During the interview, he emphasized the importance of the Grand Jury’s work in examining government operations, promoting accountability, and helping ensure that public institutions operate responsibly.

But what stood out most was the respect and admiration he expressed for the individuals he served alongside.

Kathy Bear: A Dedicated Public Servant and Trusted Friend

Of all the individuals Thomas discussed, Kathy Bear received some of his highest praise.

Thomas described Bear as an incredibly dedicated individual who works tirelessly, often putting in long hours to ensure the Grand Jury fulfills its responsibilities.

He spoke about the extensive paperwork, investigations, and administrative duties involved in Grand Jury service.

According to Thomas, Bear consistently went above and beyond what was expected.

But his appreciation extended beyond her professional dedication.

Thomas shared that Bear became more than a colleague. She became a trusted friend and someone he could turn to for guidance, advice, and meaningful conversations.

He recalled how much he appreciated her willingness to help others and admitted that she was the person he missed most after leaving the Grand Jury.

His comments reflected genuine admiration for someone he believed deserved far greater recognition for her service.

Recognizing Maria, Sue, Arnie Garza, Ronnie, and Joe Curry

Thomas also took time to recognize several other individuals who made an impression on him during his Grand Jury service.

He spoke warmly of Maria, whom he described as a fellow Portuguese community member who was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Thomas also mentioned Sue, explaining how their relationship developed into a friendship and how he came to appreciate her kindness and character.

Another individual Thomas recognized was Arnie Garza, whom he praised for his dedication and thorough approach to investigations and assignments.

Thomas described Garza as someone who takes his responsibilities seriously and goes to great lengths to complete his work.

He also highlighted Ronnie, describing him as exceptionally knowledgeable with numbers and someone who contributed significantly to the Grand Jury’s financial and paperwork responsibilities.

Thomas also mentioned Joe Curry, someone he had known for much of his life and respected as a fellow Grand Jury member.

Throughout the discussion, Thomas emphasized that these individuals deserve greater recognition for the work they perform on behalf of Kings County residents.

Grand Jury Members Deserve Greater Recognition

Thomas also expressed concern about the limited compensation and mileage reimbursement provided to Grand Jury members.

He explained that members often dedicate considerable time to investigations, meetings, travel, and paperwork, yet receive relatively little compensation for their efforts.

Thomas argued that members should receive better daily compensation and mileage reimbursement, particularly considering the responsibilities involved.

He suggested daily compensation of approximately $50 to $75 and expressed support for improved travel reimbursement.

For Thomas, the issue was not simply about money.

It was about fairness, respect, and recognizing people who dedicate themselves to public service.

His message was simple: the people working behind the scenes to protect the public interest deserve to be recognized, respected, and supported.

The conversation offered a personal glimpse into Thomas’s appreciation for those who serve their community, often without public recognition.

Thomas Backs Cheyne Strawn and Endorses Francisco Ramirez for Hanford City Council

As Hanford approaches its upcoming City Council election, Thomas also discussed his support for two candidates seeking to represent the community.

Cheyne Strawn, running for District E, and Francisco Ramirez, running for District D, both received expressions of support from the former councilman.

Thomas explained that his initial support for Strawn came through a longtime friendship with a member of Strawn’s family.

After having opportunities to speak with Strawn, Thomas said he believed the candidate had a good head on his shoulders and could serve the community well.

His support for Ramirez was especially clear.

Having known Ramirez for more than 20 years, Thomas discussed his experience observing Ramirez’s political career, including the challenges and controversies he has faced.

Thomas expressed confidence in Ramirez’s ability to return to public office and emphasized that he believed Ramirez had followed the proper election process.

“I know for a fact, you’re going to do a good job. And I’m glad you ran again,” Thomas told Ramirez.

He went further, telling Ramirez:

“You got my one hundred percent backing for you.”

When the subject of an endorsement came up, Thomas responded:

“If you need my endorsement, you got my endorsement too.”

His comments underscored his confidence in Ramirez’s return to City Hall, while his earlier remarks reflected his support for Strawn’s candidacy.

For Ramirez, receiving the endorsement of someone he has known and respected for more than two decades carried personal significance.

Political Rumors, Personal Attacks, and Recall Talk Before Ramirez Even Takes Office

Another revealing moment during the interview came when Thomas discussed the political challenges Ramirez has faced throughout his career, including rumors, personal attacks, and previous efforts to remove him from office.

Having known Ramirez for more than two decades, Thomas reflected on how political disagreements sometimes become personal and how certain individuals appear more interested in targeting elected officials than addressing the needs of the community.

Thomas suggested that Ramirez had previously been surrounded by people who wanted to influence his decisions.

According to Thomas, when Ramirez began making independent decisions rather than following their expectations, some of those individuals turned against him.

Thomas expressed frustration with what he described as people spreading rumors and criticizing Ramirez over personal differences rather than evaluating his record or discussing important city issues.

He also questioned why individuals would attempt to undermine someone who had followed the election process and was seeking to serve the community again.

Perhaps one of the most striking moments came when Ramirez revealed that he was already hearing talk about another recall effort despite not yet having returned to office.

Thomas discussed the situation as another example of the political opposition Ramirez has encountered.

The conversation raised a larger question:

How can someone be judged on their performance in office when they have not even taken office yet?

Thomas encouraged Ramirez not to allow political attacks, rumors, or personal disagreements to distract him from representing residents.

He emphasized that elected officials should never feel obligated to follow political groups or individuals simply to avoid criticism.

For Thomas, leadership means making independent decisions, listening to residents, and standing by what is right, even when those decisions are unpopular.

His message to Ramirez was clear: do not allow political pressure to determine how you serve.

The discussion also highlighted a recurring concern throughout the interview: the difference between legitimate political disagreement and personal attacks that distract from the issues affecting Hanford residents.

While criticism and accountability are essential parts of public service, Thomas argued that elected officials should be evaluated on their actions, decisions, and commitment to the community.

For Ramirez, hearing recall talk before even returning to City Hall illustrates the political challenges he believes are already developing. For Thomas, the answer remains simple: listen to the people, stand by your principles, and let your work speak for itself.

The interview did not independently establish that a formal recall effort had been organized or initiated.

A Message to the Next Generation of City Leaders

Perhaps one of the most meaningful parts of the conversation was Thomas’s advice about leadership.

Rather than focusing on political alliances, popularity, or personal recognition, Thomas encouraged future council members to seek out residents and ask what they think before casting important votes.

He explained that even when an elected official believes they understand an issue, listening to another perspective can reveal something they had not previously considered.

Thomas encouraged council members to ask residents questions, consider different viewpoints, and make decisions based on facts rather than political pressure.

He also encouraged elected leaders to remain independent and avoid changing their principles simply to gain the approval of colleagues.

“Just be yourself, do what’s right for the city and the people,” Thomas said.

His message reflected a recurring theme throughout the interview: public office should be about serving residents rather than pursuing power or recognition.

Thomas emphasized that elected officials should never forget who they represent.

And perhaps most importantly, he reminded Ramirez that doing what is right does not always mean doing what is popular.

More Than Politics: Getting to Know the Man Behind the Name

While the conversation included important political issues, it was also an opportunity to discover the man behind the public office.

From his military experiences and professional wrestling adventures to his comedy, agricultural background, family life, and decades of community involvement, Thomas shared stories that many Hanford residents may never have heard before.

His account of standing up for Kathy Willis offered a reminder that public service sometimes requires challenging those around you, especially when fairness and equal opportunity are at stake.

His recognition of Kathy Bear, Maria, Sue, Arnie Garza, Ronnie, and Joe Curry demonstrated his appreciation for individuals who dedicate themselves to serving Kings County, often without the recognition they deserve.

And his stories about wrestling, military service, and building a dairy operation revealed the determination, humor, and work ethic that have shaped his life.

For Ramirez, who has known Thomas for more than 20 years, the interview was an opportunity to recognize someone whose willingness to speak openly and challenge the political establishment left a lasting impression.

The conversation also revealed Thomas’s perspective on political rumors and personal attacks, including his belief that elected officials should never allow criticism or pressure to prevent them from serving their communities.

Thomas’s life story demonstrates that there is often much more to a public servant than the title they once held.

From the wrestling ring to military service, from business ownership to City Hall, Dave Thomas has lived a life filled with experiences, challenges, accomplishments, and lessons.

And as Hanford prepares for another election, his support for Cheyne Strawn and Francisco Ramirez adds another voice to the conversation about the city’s future.